Since the commercial launch of their satellite messaging device ZOLEO, sales in North America have been strong for Beam Communications (ASX: BCC) where they have received an order for 5,000 more devices. 

The order comes from joint-venture partner Roadpost Inc which is responsible for marketing and distribution of ZOLEO in North America via their network of retail partners as well as online through Amazon. 

Launched in December 2019 as the world’s first SOS messaging device, sales for ZOLEO got off to an excellent start before COVID-19 brought a halt to all adventurer activity. However, as restrictions are being eased around the world, Beam has seen renewed interest in their GPS products and online store www.satphoneshop.com. 

“The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had a larger impact on the sales of ZOLEO in Australia due to our strict social restrictions here, but there has been a notable pick-up in interest for our proprietary global messaging solution in the last month or so,” said Beam CEO, Michael Capocchi. 

“Both Beam and Roadpost are in active discussions with major retailers in Australia and North America and we are excited to provide more details in the coming weeks, once those discussions proceed to contract.” 

Retailing on Amazon’s Australian store for AUD $345, ZOLEO is advertised as a 2-way satellite communication device that links to a smartphone or tablet which can operate outside of cell coverage. It also features an in-built SOS function which can be activated to alert emergency dispatch partners of the user’s GPS coordinates. 

Beyond revenue from the sale of ZOLEO devices, an ongoing monthly subscription is required starting from $20 per month. 

While ZOLEO is currently only retailing in the United States, Canada and Australia, Beam has received a separate order for $300,000 worth of Inmarsat terminals and accessories from Station Satcom for use in a major Indian government project. 

In India, Beam terminals and accessories are the only devices, along with the Inmarsat handset, that are approved for sale using the Inmarsat GSPS service. 

Shares in BCC responded well to news of Beam Communications’ rising sales, reaching an intraday high of $0.25 per share, 61% rise on the previous $0.155 close.